The Coral Gables Police Department (CGPD) is stepping up its bike safety efforts during the month of March with a public awareness campaign targeted at the increasing number of bicyclists riding through the streets of Coral Gables. March is Florida Bike Month.
A “Safe Biking 101” campaign highlights the essential dos and don’ts of responsible biking. CGPD also is increasing traffic enforcement to monitor drivers and bicyclists violating the rules of the road. This is one of the many important initiatives underway to make Coral Gables a community that encourages bicycling as a means to a healthy lifestyle and a transportation alternative.
“Coral Gables is striving to become a bicycle friendly community and with that comes great responsibility to protect the safety of bicyclists, drivers as well as pedestrians who are now sharing our busy roads,” said Interim Police Chief Ed Hudak Jr.
According to the Coral Gables Police Department, among the most important Bike Safety Tips are the following:
• Ride on the street or on the sidewalk, unless where prohibited. Riding on the sidewalks along Miracle Mile is not allowed.
• When riding on the sidewalk, yield to all pedestrians.
• Ride with traffic, not against it.
• Ride in a straight line, obey traffic signs and signals, and do not weave in and out of traffic.
• Stop at red lights and stop signs, and yield at intersections.
• Use marked bike lanes or paths when available, except when making turns.
• Ride on the right half of the roadway if traveling more slowly than other traffic, except to pass, make a left turn, when necessary to avoid hazards, or when a lane is too narrow to share.
• Use a white headlight and a red taillight, as well as a bell or horn and reflectors. The bell alerts drivers, pedestrians and other cyclists to your presence.
• Stay visible. Wear brightly colored clothing for daytime riding. At night, use reflective materials and lights.
• Don’t wear headsets, earphones, or listening devices other than a hearing aid.
• Wear a helmet. Helmets are required by law for children under 16 years of age. Helmets are recommended for cyclists of all ages.
For additional information, contact the Coral Gables Police Department Community Affairs Unit at 305-460-5403.
